Our Vets are Available 🟢
Dial A Vet Logo
🐾 Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial GuidelinesNewsletter
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
💵 Pricing📖 How it Works📧 Contact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Panleukopenia - is there still hope?

I could really use some support and advice right now. My sweet little kitten, Luna, was just diagnosed with panleukopenia, and I'm absolutely heartbroken. She's only 4 months old, and I can't bear the thought of losing her. The vet explained that this illness is incredibly serious, and it's tearing me apart to see her so weak and listless. We’ve started treatment, but every minute feels like an eternity, and I can't shake this overwhelming feeling of helplessness. Has anyone else gone through this? Are there any tips or signs I should be looking out for that might indicate things are improving? I’d love to hear your experiences or any little thing you did that seemed to make a difference. Just trying to hold onto some hope here. Thanks in advance.

Answer:

Hi there, I'm sorry to hear that you’re dealing with the stress of a panleukopenia diagnosis in your cat. It's understandable to feel worried, but let’s take a closer look at the situation. Panleukopenia, often called feline distemper, is a viral infection. While it can be severe, some cats do recover with proper care and treatment.



Factors like your cat’s age, general health, and how quickly therapy is started all play a significant role in recovery. Young kittens and unvaccinated cats are at higher risk. Keeping your cat hydrated is crucial, as dehydration is one of the greatest dangers. Ensure they have access to fresh water and encourage small, frequent meals if they’re willing to eat.



Watch your cat for worsening symptoms such as persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or severe lethargy. Immediate veterinary attention is vital if these signs occur.



While at-home care helps, professional medical support is necessary for the best outcomes. Treatment often includes fluids, nutritional support, and medications to prevent secondary infections.



Please remain hopeful. Many cats do improve with care, but time is of the essence. I recommend scheduling a video consult with Dial A Vet as soon as possible so we can create the best plan for your furry friend’s recovery.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 19, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
My little boy died. He was 4 yo
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
BYOP: Bring your own poop?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Am I over reacting to thinking I've been scammed & receiving the wrong care for my cat the past 2 years?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dog at Vitamin D Softgels
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support—anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicFree Teachers lesson plansGasTexts: Free Gas Prices TextedCheersVC
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links